Thousands of Egyptian visitors and tourists flocked to the Karnak Temple area in Luxor to witness the annual phenomenon of the sun aligning with the main axis of the temple, marking the official start of winter on December 21. The National Institute for Astronomical and Geophysical Research in Egypt announced the beginning of winter in the Northern Hemisphere, which will last for 88 days, 23 hours, and 39 minutes, according to Asharq Al-Awsat.
The phenomenon occurs annually when the sun aligns with the main axis of Karnak, extending from east to west, penetrating the entrances of the pylons from the sixth to the first, as well as the Great Hypostyle Hall. The alignment allows sunlight to enter from the main axis and reach the Holy of Holies in a majestic scene that lasts for minutes, as reported by Youm7.
Abdel-Khalek Helmy, General Director of Karnak Antiquities, explained that the sun's alignment with the Holy of Holies at Karnak reveals the ancient Egyptians' distinction and their skill in linking astronomy and architecture. He stated that the ancient Egyptians were keen on this connection for 2,000 years, which is the duration it took to build the Karnak temples, according to Al-Masry Al-Youm.
Visitors witnessed the sun shining directly above the Holy Boat Chamber of Amun-Ra, built by King Philip Arrhidaeus, the brother of Alexander the Great.
The festivities were organized by the authorities of Luxor Governorate in Upper Egypt, featuring artistic and entertainment shows by the General Authority for Cultural Palaces, reported Al-Bayan. The celebration began before sunrise, with people gathering in the Karnak temples' courtyard to watch the alignment. Visitors wore costumes that revived the spirit of ancient Egyptian civilization and the glory of the pharaohs, according to Asharq Al-Awsat.
Scout children in Pharaonic costumes welcomed visitors with flowers and souvenirs and presented artistic performances inspired by ancient Egyptian art.
The alignment continued until 7 a.m., allowing ample time for visitors to experience this unique event.
Dr. Hussein Abdel Basir described the alignment as one of the great engineering and architectural achievements of the ancient Egyptians. He stated that the sun's rays align with the Holy of Holies, illuminating the main statue of the god Amun Ra, symbolizing the connection between the king and the sun and the renewal of divine energy for the new season.
The article was written with the assistance of a news analysis system.